Catholic Bishops Demand State of Emergency as Galamsey Crisis Worsens

The Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference has renewed its call for a state of emergency to tackle illegal mining, warning that the worsening crisis demands stronger government action.

Most Rev. Matthew Gyamfi, President of the Conference, said the destruction associated with galamsey threatens the environment, public health and livelihoods.

Speaking to Citi News, he urged the government to intensify its response, stressing that the consequences extend beyond damaged forests and rivers to the safety of water supplies and the food chain. (citinewsroom.com⁠)

“You cannot stop fighting galamsey,” he said.

The bishop also urged President John Dramani Mahama to demonstrate his commitment to protecting citizens through decisive action. He argued that the seriousness of the situation justified extraordinary measures, including a declaration of a state of emergency. (channelonenewsonline.com⁠)

The latest appeal follows earlier demands by the Conference for stronger enforcement. In a statement presented at a high-level engagement with the President on October 3, 2025, the bishops called for the prosecution of mining kingpins, fast-track courts and protection for communities and traditional leaders resisting illegal mining.

They also sought clear benchmarks for declaring a state of emergency and measurable standards for assessing the performance of local authorities and security agencies. (cbcgha.org⁠)

Most Rev. Gyamfi’s renewed appeal places emphasis on sustained action to protect communities and natural resources as the Conference warns that the galamsey crisis continues to worsen. (citinewsroom.com⁠)